Leroy Taylor – Biography Growing up in the mountainous farming communities of Jamaica, I developed a deep appreciation for agriculture and the environment at an early age. My exposure to traditional farming practices, combined with a passion for environmental science, led me to pursue a career that integrates agricultural sustainability, environmental stewardship, and regulatory compliance.
I hold a Bachelor of Engineering in Environmental Engineering from the University of Technology, Jamaica, where I specialized in wastewater treatment, pollution control, and environmental impact assessments. To enhance my ability to educate and train others, I later completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Education and Training. Currently, I am furthering my expertise by pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Health and Safety Management at Durham College, Ontario.
With over a decade of experience as an Environmental Officer with Jamaica’s National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), I have conducted environmental impact assessments, monitored water and soil quality, and enforced compliance in agricultural and industrial sectors. My role involved investigating pollution incidents, assessing agrochemical usage, and collaborating with stakeholders to develop sustainable land-use practices. I also have hands-on experience in farm management, having cultivated crops such as corn, cabbage, carrots, and pumpkins, while implementing best practices for soil conservation and pest management.
My technical skills include GIS mapping for land-use planning, environmental data analysis, and water resource management. I am proficient in developing emergency response plans for environmental hazards, particularly in agricultural settings where pollution incidents can have significant ecological consequences.
As I seek to become a registered Professional Agrologist in Ontario, my goal is to contribute to sustainable agriculture by integrating scientific research, environmental monitoring, and policy development. I am committed to advancing agricultural best practices, protecting natural ecosystems, and supporting climate adaptation strategies for farming communities.